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Sexually Transmitted infections, or STIs, are often perceived as a concern primarily for younger populations, but they can affect individuals of all ages, and older men and women are not immune to these infections.
In recent years, there has been a notable increase in STI rates among middle-aged adults, particularly for certain infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis. Older individuals may experience changes such as divorce, new partnerships, or re-entering the dating scene after a period of monogamy. These transitions can increase the risk of STI transmission, especially if individuals engage in unprotected sex or have multiple sexual partners, and testing can be overlooked as it is not something that has previously been necessary.
It is advisable to have regular screening if you have new sexual partners, even if you don't have any symptoms as some infections can be silent initially. Condoms offer some protection against the spread of STIs, but if you have a steady new partner and wish to avoid using condoms going forwards, it would be responsible to both be screened first.
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